Why has it taken this long. And what will come of it...

Monday, December 17, 2007

The White House has reportedly begun three detailed reviews of the US mission in Afghanistan amid a rise in attacks by the Taliban and al-Qaeda.

The reviews - by the US military, state department and the Nato alliance - will look at the security, economic and diplomatic aspects of the conflict, the New York Times said on Sunday.

"We are looking for ways to gain greater strategic coherence," an unnamed senior administration official said.

The report comes after Nato allies with troops in Afghanistan agreed to draw up a long-term plan to bring stability to the country over the next five years.

The US administration has become increasingly concerned about shortfalls in the Nato-led International Security Assistance Force (Isaf) and more sophisticated tactics by the Taliban, making 2007 the deadliest year since the Taliban was forced from power in 2001.

The reviews will be designed to better co-ordinate efforts to fight the Taliban and al-Qaeda, counter the opium trade that reportedly funds the groups and bolster the position of the Kabul government, the Times said.

"It's looking at whether we've done enough or need to do more in terms of expanding governance and economic development, as well as wrestling with the difficult security issues that we have been dealing with in Afghanistan."

The White House also favours appointing an international co-ordinator or "super envoy" to oversee the entire international effort in Afghanistan, the newspaper said, citing US officials.

I love the "Super Envoy" bit. Sounds like they have a Dick Chaney wanabe with a cape, who will wooosh across the skies. The spin doctors are obviously having a creative week.